Unplanned—and planned absenteeism is everywhere. Companies are realizing that they need to set in place a plan for coping with folks being out due to the H1N1 virus, seasonal influenza, snow storms, baptisms, you name it. The loss of one or several employees for a single day or multiple days can greatly impact productivity, revenue and profitability. In the recently published article "Using Technology to Combat Unplanned Absenteeism in the Work Place," Frost and Sullivan recommends developing a contingency plan that takes a three-pronged approach:
Setting a strong Environment empowers companies improve morale during tough times. It also increases employee retention and thus decreases costs associated with rehiring and retraining staff. Seems like common sense, but it's a tough gig for a lot of companies out there.
Providing Resources or tools is critical for employees who need to work outside of the office. Key tools for employees include easily-accessed ways to keep them connected. Access to web conferencing and audio conferencing services allows meetings to happen anytime—and and more importantly anywhere. Lost time is lost money.
An Action Plan or continuity plan decreases the overall impact on daily operations and productivity.
The most important thing a company can do when an employee is laid up with the flu is to be supportive. But, if he/she feels like logging in, make it possible, and better yet, simple to do.